Understanding how the body responds to Hepatitis Delta Virus infection
Official title: Host Response to Hepatitis Delta Virus Infection
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11168217 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) affects the immune system in people who also have Hepatitis B, to find out why it makes liver problems worse and to discover new ways to help manage HDV infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI186383-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11168217 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are co-infected with Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis Delta Virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with either Hepatitis B Virus or Hepatitis Delta Virus will not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response to Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) in individuals who are also infected with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). It aims to uncover the mechanisms by which HDV exacerbates liver inflammation and accelerates the progression to severe liver disease. The study will utilize genetic and biochemical approaches to analyze how HDV interacts with the immune system, particularly focusing on the activation of antiviral genes. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for better management of HDV infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective therapies for patients suffering from HDV and HBV co-infection, potentially improving liver health and patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral infections and immune responses, but this specific investigation into HDV is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saito, Takeshi — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Saito, Takeshi
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.